It shall be the policy of the Village and of
this article to encourage the maintenance of visual openness and to
discourage the erection of fences, such as privacy fences, which create
substantial visual barriers between and among neighboring residential
properties in the Village. In addition to the criteria set forth in
all relevant design review provisions of this chapter,[1] the design and materials used in the construction of all
fences shall aesthetically enhance the areas in which they are located.
Accordingly, chain link and similar type wire fences shall be generally
prohibited, except where specific findings are made that such a fence
in a particular case does not conflict with the provisions of this
article.
[1]
Editor's Note: See Arts. V and VI of this
chapter.
A.
The provisions of this article shall apply to all
fences and similar structures which serve as a physical barrier and
shall include, without limitation, boundary fences erected along a
lot line for the purpose of enclosing a lot and/or creating a barrier
between lots; architectural, aesthetic or decorative fences erected
for a purpose other than enclosing a lot and/or creating a barrier
between lots; walls constructed of stone, brick or similar material;
and retaining walls greater than two feet in height.
B.
This article shall not apply to the use of snow fences
during the winter months, provided that such fences are used as snow
fences and are removed at the end of each winter season.
A.
No person shall construct, alter or enlarge a fence
without obtaining a building permit, and the Building Board shall
have first determined that the fence, when constructed, altered or
enlarged, will not be unreasonably detrimental to the neighboring
properties or the Village in terms of appearance, materials, design,
location, and the resulting restriction of light, air or view.
C.
All fences shall generally be constructed of materials,
preferably cedar or similar wood, which tend to blend in to the surroundings.
Painted fences shall be discouraged.
D.
Boundary fences which are erected along a lot line
for the purpose of enclosing a lot and/or creating a barrier between
lots shall have a minimum six-inch side and rear yard setback and
shall be limited to rear yards, although an exception may be allowed
for corner lots or other lots involving unique circumstances.
E.
No fence erected in residential districts shall exceed
a height of six feet above ground level. An exception to this height
limitation may be allowed where the purpose of the fence is to block
the view of a commercial property or provide privacy from incompatible
uses, in which case, at the discretion of the Building Board, a fence
may be allowed within a range of a maximum of eight feet above ground
level and a minimum of four feet above ground level.
F.
The finished side or decorative side of all fences
shall face neighboring properties.
